How does Mini’s father’s reaction to the Cabuliwallah affect the plot of this story?

A Although Mini’s father is conflicted about the Cabuliwallah’s intentions, he allows his daughter to befriend the Cabuliwallah.

B Because Mini's father and the Cabuliwallah share a common interest in current events, the two men build a strong friendship despite their differences.

C Because Mini's father feels the Cabuliwallah is beneath him, he refuses to condone a friendship between the Cabuliwallah and his daughter.

D Although Mini's father accepts the Cabuliwallah, he turns him away because he does not wish to cause tension with his wife.

The correct answer is A. Although Mini’s father is conflicted about the Cabuliwallah’s intentions, he allows his daughter to befriend the Cabuliwallah.

Explanation: The father has introduced Mini to the Cabuliwallah so that she would overcome her initial terror, and the Cabuliwallah would give her treats when he would visit. If the father paid for the raisins, he would give the money to Mini - much to the disapproval of her mother. Not only did he give her gifts, he gave her time because she was so talkative ("... my small daughter had never found so patient a listener"). We know the father struggled with their friendship when his wife would inquire about the possibility of her being kidnapped. The father shows concern to the odd friendship, but states "the two friends, so far apart in age, would subside into their old laughter and their old jokes, I felt reassured".